The Giants have signed quarterback Rusty Smith, they announced on Monday morning.

Smith, 6-5 and 217 pounds, played in only three regular-season games – starting one – in his four seasons in Tennessee. He made two appearances in 2010 and one in 2012. His career totals include 23 completions in 45 attempts for 234 yards, no touchdowns and four interceptions.

The Giants now have five quarterbacks on the roster.

John Fennelly, Lead Writer

Your guess is as good as mine. A signing such as this could be something benign or it could be a precursor to something bigger.

It just furthers the mystery around the status of Ryan Nassib. What is the plan?

My take is the Giants want to carry three QBs again this year because of Eli’s recent injury and rehab. They realize he is vulnerable and they do not have sufficient backups. I believe Jerry Reese knows he has to keep Nassib because of the high price he paid for him last season.

What appears to be happening is they are looking for an upgrade over Curtis Painter. He’s gotta be the guy on the hot seat. Josh Freeman and now Rusty Smith will be pushing Painter this summer for the primary backup spot.